$1,000 Triathlon Outfitting: Part II

If you haven't already, Here is Part One of my $1000 Triathlon Outfitting Posts. I have already covered the swim section of the triathlon, but now I want to get into the most expensive part of the triathlon sport, cycling.

THE BIKE

As I stated in the previous post, while Craigslist and other websites like it are options for a cheap bike, my suggestion is to go with a local cycling email group that posts items for sale. These should be easy to find through a Google search or talking with the people at the bike shop or on a group training ride.

Besides going to a cycling group email or Craigslist, shopping at a bike shops season clearance event would be the next best option. These sales typically take place in the fall season and can be deeply discounted to make way for the next seasons latest and greatest.

Performance Bicycles will have some of the best options available online. Doing a search in their "outlet" section, I found this entry level bike for $600. Also keep a look out for discounts with Performance. As I searched the website there was a deal that was currently going on, giving an extra 15% off of outlet items. This would bring the bike price to $510.

However you get your bike, be sure it has been inspected by someone knowledgeable. This could mean the difference between finishing time and DNF.

If this is the first triathlon or if comfort on the bike is not a strong point, toe pedals (typically included with the purchase) might be the best option. There is no worry about clipping in or clipping out of pedals or loosing time struggling with these issues. My first triathlon I did back in 2007 I did with toe hooks. These make it so the only thing needed for shoes is the pair of running shoes that will be used later in the race.

If there is enough time between purchasing the bike and the race, getting a pair of shoes with clip-in pedals is a worth while investment. If this is your first time with these shoes, don't go for high end. Start off with a basic shoe with SPD cleats. This type of shoe will be less than $50 and another $25 for the pedal. These provide the added benefit of being able to be used on the spin bikes in most if not all gyms. This would be a good place to start riding with the shoes and getting use to clipping in and clipping out as well as any change in pedal stroke.

HELMET

Any helmet purchased brand new will be doing what it is suppose to, preventing major brain and head injuries. The difference in prices will be based on the weight and ventilation of the helmet. The cheaper helmets will not be vented or as light as the higher end helmets that will be seen in the professional ranks.

A simple Google search, here, shows that helmets are affordable. Every race that is sanctioned by a USA organization requires a helmet. Without a helmet, YOU WILL NOT COMPETE. Also keep in mind that once there is a crash or after two years of use, replace the helmet. This is because of the foam that is in the helmets wears out.

An upgrade to an aerodynamic helmet can also be affordable, but I suggest waiting on purchasing until after the first race. Once realizing your enjoyment for the triathlon lifestyle, finding an aero helmet under $100 is possible. I personally use Louis Garneau helmet that based on my searches isn't made anymore. Like any other product, fit is key, so be sure to try before you buy.

WATER BOTTLES

Any standard water bottle can be purchase from Wal-Mart or sports shops for $2-$4. If there is a desire to upgrade, Camelbak makes great insulated bottles that run for around $10-$12. I personally use Profile Design aerobottle. This will attach to the aerobars and provides easy access to hydration.

SADDLE BAG and other minor items

These bags are meant to hold items such as spare tire (in case of a flat tire), CO2 cartridge (to inflate the spare tire), and tire levers (to remove the flat tire). All of these items are handy items with all of them able to be purchased individually for under $15. All saddle bags are going to be based on preference but as long as they fit on your bike and fit all the items needed, there is no reason to buy the most expensive.

Tubes, CO2 cartridge/pump, tire levers, and multi-tool should be purchased online. My personal choice for websites is biketiresdirect.com, this website gives you credit for your previous purchase towards your current purchase. Along with that there is free shipping on any purchase over $100 total. I use Continental tubes, generic CO2 cartridge (cheapest is good and make sure it's threaded), CO2 Inflator, and Park Tool levers. Multi-tools should be small and simple with nothing more than 5 or 10 tools. Something that requires more than the 5-10 tools that come standard with multi tools can not be fixed on the side of the road.

FLOOR PUMPS

If you are buying a floor pump, it needs to have a gauge to show the PSI (pressure per square inch), as well as Presta and/or Schrader Valve Compatible. Presta valves are typical for road bike tires, where as Schrader valves are more for mountain bike tires.

I will post the third and final post on outfitting, finishing up with the run.